Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale says the sacking of manager Rafael Benitez was a "big disappointment", but that he is still happy at the club. ( Guardian )

Harry Redknapp has called for the Premier League to work more closely with the Football Association to help preserve the standing of the FA Cup. Redknapp, as a manager, won the cup with Portsmouth in 2008. ( Daily Telegraph )

Swansea's Jonjo Shelvey was involved in a post-match confrontation with a furious fan after they were dumped out of the FA Cup at Oxford. ( Daily Mirror )

Newcastle captain Fabricio Coloccini says the negative reaction from supporters is understandable after they were knocked out of the FA Cup by Watford on Saturda. ( Daily Telegraph )

New Liverpool signing Marko Grujic nearly pulled the plug on his move to Merseyside because he is claustrophobic and was uncomfortable taking an MRI scan during his medical. ( Daily Mail )

Liverpool's new signing Marko Grujic almost did not go through with the transfer - because he was so scared of getting in the MRI machine for his medical. ( Daily Mail )

Former Swansea forward Michu says he was more nervous making his debut for Spanish fourth-tier side Union Popular de Langreo this weekend than he was when he played at Old Trafford and Anfield in the Premier League.
( Guardian )